The wait is finally over. After more than a decade since the last installment, EA Sports College Football 25 is set to make its triumphant return this summer, and Texas Longhorns fans have every reason to be excited. The first official look at the Longhorns in the game has arrived, and it’s clear that the developers have gone all-out to capture the essence of one of college football’s most storied programs. From the burnt orange uniforms glistening under Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium’s lights to the meticulously recreated player models, EA Sports College Football 26 is shaping up to be a love letter to Texas football.
One of the most striking aspects of the Longhorns’ debut in the game is the sheer level of detail. The player models are more lifelike than ever, with facial scans, signature animations, and even the way athletes move on the field reflecting their real-life counterparts. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, fresh off a standout 2023 season, looks every bit the part of a star signal-caller, from his signature blonde mullet to his smooth throwing motion. Meanwhile, defensive stars like linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and edge rusher Ethan Burke are rendered with an intensity that mirrors their on-field ferocity. The attention to detail extends beyond just the starters—even the backups and role players have distinct appearances, ensuring that the depth of Texas’ roster is fully represented.
Of course, a major part of any college football game is the atmosphere, and EA Sports College Football 26 appears to have nailed it. DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium is recreated in stunning high definition, complete with the iconic “Hook ‘Em Horns” hand signs in the crowd, the deafening roar of 100,000 fans after a big play, and even the Bevo mascot prowling the sidelines. The game’s new dynamic crowd system ensures that the energy shifts with the momentum of the game—a close fourth-quarter battle against Oklahoma or Alabama will feel palpably tense, while a blowout win over a conference foe will see the stands erupting in celebration. The “Eyes of Texas” playing after a touchdown? It’s all there, and it’s as goosebump-inducing as the real thing.
Gameplay improvements are another area where the Longhorns—and the rest of the teams in the game—stand to benefit. EA Sports College Football 26 introduces a revamped physics engine that promises more realistic collisions, smoother animations, and smarter AI. Running backs like CJ Baxter will showcase distinct running styles, with the ability to break tackles in a way that feels true to their real-life skills. The passing game has also been overhauled, with quarterbacks like Ewers and Arch Manning able to throw with varying levels of touch and velocity, depending on the situation. Defensively, the Longhorns’ aggressive scheme is reflected in the game’s new play-calling system, allowing users to dial up blitzes or drop into coverage with the same strategic depth that Pete Kwiatkowski employs on Saturdays.
Recruiting and team-building have always been a cornerstone of the NCAA Football series, and the Longhorns’ presence in Dynasty Mode is sure to be a major draw. Texas’ rich tradition, top-tier facilities, and recent resurgence under Steve Sarkisian make them a powerhouse in the virtual recruiting world, just as they are in reality. Players will be able to pitch five-star recruits on the chance to play in the SEC, develop under elite coaching, and compete for national titles—all while navigating the ever-changing landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which are a new addition to the game. The depth of Dynasty Mode allows for long-term program building, whether that means maintaining Texas’ current dominance or rebuilding the program from scratch in a custom scenario.
Road to Glory mode also makes a return, giving players the chance to create their own high school prospect and guide them through a college career. Imagine leading your custom quarterback from a Texas high school powerhouse to a Heisman-winning career in Austin, with every step of the journey—from offseason training to rivalry games—playing out in cinematic detail. The mode has been expanded to include more narrative elements, including press conferences, locker room speeches, and even transfer portal decisions, making the experience more immersive than ever.
Of course, no discussion of EA Sports College Football 26 would be complete without mentioning Ultimate Team, the popular card-collecting mode that allows players to build dream squads featuring Longhorns legends. Vince Young, Earl Campbell, Colt McCoy, and other Texas icons are expected to be available, giving fans the chance to recreate historic moments or imagine new ones with an all-time Longhorns roster. The mode will also feature current stars, meaning you could pair Ewers with Roy Williams or let Bijan Robinson run behind an offensive line featuring Justin Blalock. The possibilities are endless.
